Back to School STEM Activities – 12 Engineering Challenges

Back to School STEM Activities – 12 Engineering Challenges
Get your STEM routine started from day one with this engaging Back to School STEM bundle.
This collection of 12 hands-on engineering challenges is designed to help pupils settle quickly into the classroom while building problem-solving skills, teamwork, and confidence through practical learning.
Each activity follows the same clear, consistent format, making planning simple and allowing pupils to become familiar with expectations right away. Perfect for building strong classroom routines during the first weeks of school.
Designed for Primary classrooms, STEM lessons, enrichment groups, and home education settings.

Age & Curriculum Fit
Suitable for ages 5–7 (KS1), with accessible extension opportunities for KS2 learners.
Supports a wide range of learners, including ESL pupils, with simple instructions and practical, hands-on tasks.

What Makes This Ideal for Back to School
• Helps establish classroom routines quickly
• Encourages teamwork and collaboration from the start of the year
• Builds problem-solving and design thinking skills
• Keeps pupils engaged with hands-on, meaningful learning
• Uses simple, affordable classroom materials
• Flexible for whole-class, group work, or STEM centres

What’s Included (12 Engineering Challenges)
• Build a Bridge
• Paper Tower
• Index Card Tower
• Push & Pull Force
• Car Push Distance
• Slide & Stop
• Paper Glider Design
• Straw Rocket
• Balloon Rocket
• Ball Drop Speed
• Bounce Height Investigation
• Egg Drop Device

Perfect For
• Back to school lessons
• First week of school activities
• STEM centres
• Early finishers
• Small group work
• Enrichment sessions
• Supply / cover lessons
• Home education

Why Teachers Love This Bundle
This bundle gives you a ready-to-use set of STEM challenges that are easy to implement, engaging for pupils, and designed to build confidence at the start of the school year.
The consistent structure means less planning, smoother transitions, and more time focused on learning.

Terms of Use
For personal and single-classroom use only. Not for resale, redistribution, or commercial use.